Military · Wednesday, 2 September 2026
Why cheap drones are changing air defence, not replacing missiles
Industry analysis clarifies that the rise of low-cost drones is creating a new threat layer rather than rendering advanced air-to-air missiles obsolete.
TL;DR
Militaries are now balancing the need for inexpensive counter-drone systems with the continued requirement for high-end missiles to engage sophisticated fighter aircraft. This distinction is shaping current defense procurement strategies, as nations race to develop ultra-long-range missiles like the AIM-424 'Malice' while simultaneously addressing the drone blind spot.
Aerospace Global News1 Sept, 16:53 BST
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